The history of the world--triumphs and tragedies, breakthroughs and
breakups--through the iconic jewels that have inspired and influenced
since the dawn of time.
From ancient treasures to royal weddings, great heists to the red
carpet, this book is a stunning, surprising, and glittering tour of
historic turning points and gem-driven drama, delving into the passions
and predilections of some of the world's most interesting and
extraordinary people.
Starting in the era of Cleopatra and continuing through to contemporary
jewelry statements by Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, and Meghan Markle,
Stellene Volandes tells the stories of how shiny stones and precious
metals have determined empires, inspired expeditions and great crime,
and been the communicator of status and ruin since ancient times. Each
moment is placed in historic and relevant context, with Volandes drawing
engaging parallels between Napoleon's gift to Marie Louise at the birth
of their son and the modern push present or the insouciant story behind
the brooch Jackie Kennedy famously wore to a 1962 State Dinner with the
Shah of Iran. Illustrated with a mix of archival images and gorgeous
photography of the jewels, this book is a beautiful, informative, and
essential read for history lovers, fashion, celebrity, and pop-culture
followers, as well as passionate jewel hounds.
